Luke Skotzke

LUKE ANTHONY SKOTZKE, age 20, died suddenly and tragically by drowning in a swimming accident on July 17, 2025. He was the beloved son of Richard and Jacqueline (nee Virant); loving brother of Sadie; cherished grandson of Ann and the late James Virant and the late Marilyn and Richard Skotzke; treasured nephew of Sara Skotzke and Michael and Sonya Virant; dearest cousin of Noah, Gabriel and Zoe; dear friend of many; loving canine companion of Tealee.

Luke's parents joyously welcomed him into the world on July 6, 2005. Luke grew up in Chardon. He attended St. Anselm School through eighth grade and graduated from Notre Dame-Cathedral Latin High School in 2024. He was a student at the University of Dayton studying Mechanical Engineering with a concentration in Aerospace. Luke was a thoughtful young man with a servant's heart evidenced by his multiple mission trips to Appalachia. He recently co-founded the NDCL Alumni Group, so that he and other graduates could continue to serve others in Appalachia. Luke was selfless and giving, always putting others first. He enjoyed photography, stargazing, weightlifting, playing guitar, listening to music, attending concerts, building Legos, and playing video games. 

In high school, Luke was on the technical crew for NDCL plays, masses, and announcements. He excelled academically, finishing third in his class. In addition, Luke was selected to be a Kairos Leader, helping other students build their relationship with God and bring about greater excellence within themselves. As a senior, Luke was awarded the Living the Truth in Love Award, NDCL's highest honor. He also received the Hands of a Servant Award for providing extraordinary service to NDCL's Campus Ministry. As a freshman at the University of Dayton, Luke was a Teaching Assistant, as well as a member of the Aero Design Club. Luke loved nature and could often be found outdoors. Above all, Luke was devoted to his family, friends, and faith. He had a heart of gold that you could not miss. The sky was the limit for Luke. Nothing can fill the void within our hearts that his passing has left, but we will forever cherish each memory we have of him and find comfort in the fact that he left this world a better place by being in it.

In lieu of flowers, please consider honoring Luke's legacy of helping others. Donations can be made by clicking HERE to support the Appalachian Mission Trips for Students and Alumni through NDCL Campus Ministry.

Mass of Christian Burial Friday, July 25, 2025, at St. Anselm Catholic Church, 12969 Chillicothe Rd., Chesterland, OH 44026, at 12 Noon. Burial following at All Souls Cemetery. Family will receive friends to pay tribute to and celebrate the life of Luke at THE DeJOHN FUNERAL HOME & CELEBRATIONS CENTER OF CHESTERLAND 12811 CHILLICOTHE ROAD (Rt. 306, just south of Mayfield Rd.) WEDNESDAY 4-8 PM AND THURSDAY 4-8 PM.